JP2015168141A - Sheet binding device, sheet post-processing device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technique for actualizing a strong binding process with space-saving constitution without greatly lowering the throughput.SOLUTION: A sheet binding device includes a conveyance part, an adhesive imparting part, a press part, a sheet-count information acquisition part, and a press control part. The adhesive imparting part applies an adhesive to the upper surface of a sheet each time the sheet is loaded on a tray, and the press part presses the upper surface of a second sheet loaded on the first sheet having been applied with the adhesive by the adhesive imparting part so as to bond the first sheet and second sheet together. The sheet-count information acquisition part acquires sheet-count information representing the number of sheets forming a sheet bundle to be bundled by bonding, and the press control part presses a sheet bundle of the first number of loaded sheets with first press force on the basis of the sheet-count information acquired by the sheet-count information acquisition part, and also presses a sheet bundle of the second number of sheets, having sheets loaded additionally on the sheet bundle of the first number of sheets, with second press force larger than the first press force.

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for binding a plurality of sheets with an adhesive such as glue.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, post-processing apparatuses that perform various post-processing on a sheet on which an image is formed in an image forming apparatus are known.

  Some of the above-described conventional post-processing apparatuses have a function of binding a sheet bundle composed of a plurality of sheets by stapling.

  However, the sheet bundle bound by the staple cannot be shredded as it is. In addition, when the staple is removed from the stapled sheet bundle and reused as paper in the image forming apparatus, the hole opened by the staple has an adverse effect on the sheet conveyance in the image forming apparatus and causes the sheet jam. There is a risk of becoming.

  The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problems. In the case where a plurality of sheets are bound by an adhesive such as glue, the space-saving configuration makes it possible to achieve robustness without significantly reducing throughput. An object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of realizing the binding process.

  The sheet binding apparatus according to the embodiment includes a tray, a conveyance unit, an adhesive application unit, a pressing unit, a number information acquisition unit, and a pressing control unit. The tray stacks sheets to be subjected to binding processing. The transport unit transports and stacks sheets on the stacking surface of the tray. The adhesive application unit attaches the adhesive to the upper surface of the stacked sheets every time the sheets are stacked on the tray. The pressing unit presses the upper surface of the second sheet stacked on the first sheet to which the adhesive is applied by the adhesive applying unit, and bonds the first sheet and the second sheet. Let The sheet number information acquisition unit acquires sheet number information indicating the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle to be bound by adhesion. The pressing control unit presses the first bundle of sheet bundles with a first pressing force based on the sheet number information acquired by the sheet number information acquisition unit, and the first number of sheet bundles. Further, a second sheet bundle in a state in which sheets are additionally stacked is pressed with a second pressing force higher than the first pressing force.

2 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of the post-processing apparatus 1 and an image forming apparatus 7 connected to the post-processing apparatus 1. FIG. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows schematic structure of the binding process part T periphery. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a glued sheet bundle is stacked on a processing tray. 5 is a diagram for explaining a pressing operation by a pressing mechanism D. FIG. 5 is a transition diagram for explaining a series of pressing operations by the pressing mechanism D. FIG. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows schematic structure at the time of seeing the processing tray 102 and the binding process part T periphery from diagonally upward. 3 is a partially exploded perspective view showing an example of a configuration of a gluing unit 101 in a binding processing unit T. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the control block of post-processing apparatus 1 provided with the sheet binding apparatus by embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the control block of the image forming apparatus 7 which can be connected to the post-processing apparatus 1 by embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating an example of the flow of a process in the sheet | seat binding apparatus by embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating an example of the flow of a process in the sheet | seat binding apparatus by embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the data table which defines a press setting parameter. It is a figure which shows a mode that the adhesive agent provision by the glue head 101a is performed with respect to the sheet | seat bundle used as the object of a binding process. It is a figure which shows a mode that the adhesive agent provision by the glue head 101a is performed with respect to the sheet | seat bundle used as the object of a binding process. It is a figure which shows a mode that the adhesive agent provision by the glue head 101a is performed with respect to the sheet | seat bundle used as the object of a binding process. It is a figure which shows a mode that the adhesive agent provision by the glue head 101a is performed with respect to the sheet | seat bundle used as the object of a binding process. It is a figure which shows a mode that the adhesive agent provision by the glue head 101a is performed with respect to the sheet | seat bundle used as the object of a binding process. It is a figure which shows a mode that the adhesive provision by the gluing head 101a is interrupted. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows schematic structure of the tape stamp apparatus 50 which can be employ | adopted as an adhesive agent provision part. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows schematic structure of the tape stamp apparatus 50 which can be employ | adopted as an adhesive agent provision part.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings.
<Overall description of device>
FIG. 1 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a post-processing apparatus 1 (so-called finisher) and an image forming apparatus 7 connected to the post-processing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment.

  The image forming apparatus 7 according to the present embodiment performs, for example, an image forming process by the image forming unit 706 on a sheet conveyed from a sheet supply unit 708 including a so-called sheet feeding cassette by a conveyance roller (not shown). The sheet on which the image is formed by the image forming unit 706 is conveyed toward the post-processing apparatus 1 by a conveyance unit 707 including a conveyance roller.

  A sheet detection sensor S1 and a thickness sensor H1 are provided in the vicinity of the conveyance roller located on the most downstream side in the sheet conveyance path by the conveyance unit 707. The sheet detection sensor S1 is, for example, a reflection or transmission optical sensor, or a mechanical sensor including a combination of a lever and an optical sensor. The sheet is conveyed toward the post-processing apparatus 1 by the conveyance unit 707. The presence or absence of is detected. The thickness sensor H1 is a mechanical sensor including a combination of a lever and an optical sensor that are rotatably supported, for example, and is rotated by the passage of a sheet conveyed toward the post-processing apparatus 1 by the conveyance unit 707. By detecting the amount of rotation of the lever by an optical sensor or the like, the thickness of the sheet (whether it is thick paper or plain paper) is detected.

  The post-processing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment receives, for example, a sheet output from the image forming apparatus 7 that is communicably connected to the post-processing apparatus 1, and performs binding processing, folding processing, punching processing, and the like on the sheet. Various processes are performed.

  The post-processing apparatus 1 roughly includes, for example, a binding processing unit T, a folding processing unit B, a stapler W, and a punching unit 109 as processing functions.

  The sheet on which the image is formed by the image forming apparatus 7 first passes through the punching portion 109. When punching a sheet, the hole punching unit 109 performs hole punching on the sheet at this point.

  The sheet that has passed through the punching unit 109 is switched by the flapper 117 to either the transport path 110 or the transport path 108.

  When it is desired to perform only the punching process on the sheet or to discharge the sheet that has passed through the punching unit 109 to the outside of the apparatus, the sheet is guided to the transport path 108 by the flapper 117 and the transport roller R1. Further, the paper is guided to the transport path 119 by the flapper 107 and the transport roller R2, and is discharged onto the first discharge tray 106 by the transport roller R3 and the like.

  On the other hand, when it is desired to perform the binding process on the sheet by the binding processing unit T, the sheet guided to the conveyance path 108 is further guided to the conveyance path 120 by the flapper 107 and the conveyance roller R2, and the buffer tray 104 is conveyed by the conveyance roller R4 and the like. Drain up. FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a schematic configuration around the binding processing unit T. As shown in FIG.

  Thereafter, the sheets discharged onto the buffer tray 104 fall onto the processing tray 102 while being hit by the paddle 103 that rotates counterclockwise on the paper surface of FIG. 1, and are sequentially stacked on the processing tray 102. As described above, the processing tray 102 has a role of stacking sheets to be bound. Therefore, in the present embodiment, for example, the transport rollers R1, R2 and R4, the flappers 117 and 107, the transport guide (not shown), the buffer tray 104, the paddle 103, and the like correspond to the “transport section”.

  The binding processing unit T binds a plurality of sheets by bonding. The binding processing unit T includes a gluing unit 101 (adhesive applying unit) that performs gluing on the upper surface of the sheets stacked on the processing tray 102. Each time a sheet is stacked on the processing tray 102, the binding processing unit T performs gluing by the gluing unit 101 on the upper surface of the sheet. However, for example, when it is desired to bind a bundle of ten sheets, no gluing is performed on the upper surface of the tenth sheet. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the glued sheet bundle is stacked on the processing tray 102.

  When all of a plurality of sheets to be bound are stacked on the processing tray 102 and the pasting of the upper surfaces of the sheets other than the topmost sheet in the plurality of sheet bundles is completed, the plurality of sheets are In the overlapped state, the position corresponding to the gluing position is pressed toward the processing tray 102 by the pressing mechanism D (pressing portion). The gluing unit 101 here injects liquid glue onto the sheet, and the plurality of sheets are firmly bonded to each other by pressing by the pressing mechanism D, and the sheet binding process is completed (FIG. 4). See).

  On the other hand, when it is desired to perform a folding process or a stapling process on the sheet that has passed through the punching unit 109, the sheet is guided to the conveyance path 110 by the flapper 117, and the stapler W is applied to the sheet discharged onto the stacker 111. The stapling process by, and the folding process by the folding processing unit B are performed. Specifically, the folding processing unit B folds the sheet bundle that has been stapled by the stapler W, for example, with the folding blade 112 and the folding roller 113, further sandwiches the crease with the folding roller 114, and then with the discharge roller 115. The sheet bundle folded on the third discharge tray 116 is discharged.

  A sheet detection sensor S2 and a thickness sensor H2 are arranged along the conveyance path 120. The sheet detection sensor S2 is, for example, a reflection type or transmission type optical sensor, or a mechanical sensor including a combination of a lever and an optical sensor, and detects the presence or absence of a sheet conveyed on the conveyance path 120. That is, when a sheet is detected by the sheet detection sensor S2, it means that there is a sheet supplied to the binding processing unit T as an object of binding processing. Further, the thickness sensor H2 is a mechanical sensor composed of, for example, a lever that is rotatably supported and an optical sensor, and is rotated by the passage of a sheet conveyed toward the buffer tray 104 by the conveyance roller R2 or the like. By detecting the amount of rotation of the lever by an optical sensor or the like, the thickness of the sheet (whether it is thick paper or plain paper) is detected.

  FIG. 5 is a transition diagram for explaining a series of pressing operations by the pressing mechanism D. FIG. The pressing mechanism D presses the upper surface of the second sheet stacked on the first sheet to which the adhesive is adhered by the gluing unit 101 (adhesive application unit), and the first sheet and the second sheet And has a role of bonding. As shown in the figure, the pressing mechanism D includes, for example, a pressing member 101r, a guide member 101g, a motor 101z, a cam 101x, a rack gear 101y, a motor 101m, a pinion gear 101f, a guided member 101n, a pin 101q, and the like. it can.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the pressing mechanism D will be described.

  A cam 101x is attached to the output shaft of the motor 101z, and the cam 101x rotates by driving the motor 101z to rotate. The cam 101x is provided with a pin 101q, and the pin 101q slides in a guide groove 101t formed in the pressing member 101r.

  The pressing member 101r is further provided with a guided member 101n, and the guided member 101n is guided by a guide groove of the guide member 101g so as to be reciprocally movable.

  Therefore, when the motor 101z is driven to rotate, the pin 101q of the cam 101x also rotates, and the driving force is transmitted to the pressing member 101r through the guide groove 101t by the moving pin 101q, and the pressing member 101r follows the guide groove of the guide member 101g. Reciprocate.

  A rack gear 101y extending in a direction (pressing direction) orthogonal to the direction in which the guide groove of the guide member 101g extends is formed at the end of the pressing member 101r. The rack gear 101y meshes with a pinion gear 101f attached to the output shaft of the motor 101m. By rotating the motor 101m, the guide member 101g and the pressing member 101r are reciprocated in the extending direction of the rack gear 101y. Can do. Therefore, by controlling the rotation of the motor 101m, it is possible to control the force for pressing the sheet bundle stacked on the processing tray 102. Here, the reciprocating operation of the pressing member 101r is controlled by the rack and pinion mechanism. However, the invention is not limited to this, and when pressing with a stronger force, for example, the worm gear is replaced with the motor 101m instead of the rack gear. A rack and worm gear mechanism attached to the output shaft may be employed.

  The sheet bundle composed of a plurality of sheets bound by the binding process is then discharged onto the second discharge tray 105 by a discharge member (not shown) provided on the processing tray 102, for example. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view showing a schematic configuration when the periphery of the processing tray 102 and the binding processing unit T is viewed obliquely from above.

  FIG. 7 is a partially exploded perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the gluing unit 101 in the binding processing unit T. As shown in the figure, the gluing unit 101 includes a gluing head 101a (gluing unit), a supply pipe 101d, a shaft 101c, a motor 101b, and the like. The gluing head 101 is supported by a shaft 101c having a worm gear formed on its outer peripheral surface so as to be able to reciprocate in the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. The shaft 101c is connected to the output shaft of the motor 101c and rotates by the rotational drive of the motor 101c. Thus, when the motor 101 rotates in the forward direction, the glue head 101a moves toward one side by the action of the worm gear of the shaft 101c, and when the motor 101 rotates in the reverse direction, the glue head 101a moves toward the other side by the action of the worm gear of the shaft 101c.

  In this way, the glue head 101a supported so as to be able to reciprocate is supplied with liquid glue via a supply pipe 101d by a pump (not shown). The liquid glue supplied to the gluing head 101a is jetted from a nozzle 101an provided in the gluing head 101a to a desired area on the upper surface of the sheets stacked on the processing tray 102.

  Thus, the binding processing unit T (gluing unit) can selectively glue at least one of a plurality of “predetermined gluing target areas” on the sheet to be glued. The plurality of “predetermined gluing target areas” are set in advance with respect to the sheet. Note that the gluing head 101a may have the same configuration as an ink jet printer head that discharges a pressure-sensitive adhesive by driving a piezoelectric element or a thermal element.

  Here, as an example, the configuration in which the binding processing unit T is disposed at the position illustrated in FIG. 1 in the post-processing apparatus 1 is illustrated, but the configuration is not necessarily limited thereto. It can also be provided at other locations in the apparatus such as the folding processing section B.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a control block of the post-processing device 1 including the sheet binding device according to the embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the post-processing device 1 is described in part, for example, a CPU 801, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) 802, a MEMORY 803, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 804, a gluing head 101a, a motor 101m, a motor 101z, a motor 101b, a punching unit 109, a stapler W, a folding processing unit B, a communication interface 805, a sheet detection sensor S2, a thickness sensor H2, a conveyance unit (described above), and the like.

  Various actuators, sensors, and the like included in the post-processing device 1 such as the ASIC 802, the MEMORY 803, the HDD 804, the motor 101m, the motor 101b, and the communication interface 805 are connected to the CPU 801 via a communication line such as a parallel bus or a serial bus. Yes.

  The CPU 801 acquires information detected by the sheet detection sensor S2 and the thickness sensor H2. In addition, when the post-processing device 1 includes a media sensor (not shown) or the like, the CPU 801 also acquires a detection result of the media sensor.

  The CPU 801 controls, for example, the gluing head 101a, the motor 101m, the motor 101z, the motor 101b, the communication interface 805, the conveyance unit, and the like by loading the program downloaded from the HDD 804 or the outside of the apparatus into the MEMORY 803 and executing the program.

  In the sheet binding apparatus and the post-processing apparatus 1 including the same according to the present embodiment, the CPU 801 has a role of performing various processes in the sheet binding apparatus and the post-processing apparatus 1 including the sheet binding apparatus, and in the MEMORY 803, the HDD 804, and the like. It also has a role of realizing various functions by executing stored programs. It goes without saying that the CPU 801 can be replaced by an MPU (Micro Processing Unit) capable of executing equivalent arithmetic processing. Similarly, the HDD 804 can be replaced by a storage device such as a flash memory.

  The MEMORY 803 includes, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), an SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), a VRAM (Video RAM), a flash memory, and the like. For example, it has a role of storing various information and programs used in the sheet binding apparatus and the post-processing apparatus 1 including the sheet binding apparatus.

  With such a configuration, the CPU 801 (the number information acquisition unit and the thickness information acquisition unit) sends the sheet number information indicating the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle to be bound by adhesion and the information indicating the sheet thickness to the image forming apparatus 7. It can also be acquired from the CPU 701 provided via the communication interfaces 705 and 805.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a control block of the image forming apparatus 7 that can be connected to the post-processing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the image forming apparatus 7 is described in part. For example, the CPU 701, ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) 702, MEMORY 703, HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 704, communication interface 705, and image forming unit 706. , A sheet conveyance unit 707, a sheet supply unit 708, a sheet detection sensor S1, a thickness sensor H1, and the like.

  Various actuators, sensors, and the like included in the image forming apparatus 7 such as the ASIC 702, the MEMORY 703, the HDD 704, and the communication interface 705 are connected to the CPU 701 via a communication line such as a parallel bus or a serial bus.

  The CPU 701 acquires information detected by the sheet detection sensor S1 and the thickness sensor H1. In addition, when the image forming apparatus 7 includes a media sensor (not shown) or the like, the CPU 701 also acquires a detection result of the media sensor.

  The CPU 701 controls, for example, the gluing head 101a, the motor 101m, the motor 101z, the motor 101b, the communication interface 805, and the like by loading the program downloaded from the HDD 704 or the outside of the apparatus into the MEMORY 703 and executing the program.

  In the image forming apparatus 7 according to the present embodiment, the CPU 701 has a role of performing various processes in the image forming apparatus 7 and performs various functions by executing programs stored in the MEMORY 703, the HDD 704, and the like. It also has a role to realize. It goes without saying that the CPU 701 can be replaced by an MPU (Micro Processing Unit) capable of executing equivalent arithmetic processing. Similarly, the HDD 704 can be replaced by a storage device such as a flash memory.

  The MEMORY 703 includes, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), an SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), a VRAM (Video RAM), a flash memory, and the like. For example, it has a role of storing various information and programs used in the image forming apparatus 7.

  With such a configuration, the CPU 701 transmits the number information indicating the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle to be bound by adhesion and the information indicating the thickness (basis weight) of the sheets to be bound via the communication interface 705. It can be transmitted to the processing device 1.

Here, a case where the CPU 801 basically performs arithmetic processing in the post-processing apparatus 1 and the CPU 701 basically performs arithmetic processing in the image forming apparatus 7 is illustrated, but the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto. For example, from the viewpoint of distributed processing, the CPU 801 can supplementarily perform arithmetic processing in the image forming apparatus 7, or the CPU 701 can supplementarily perform arithmetic processing in the post-processing apparatus 1. In addition, a program executed by one of the CPUs of the post-processing apparatus 1 and the image forming apparatus 7 is stored in a storage area provided in either or both of the post-processing apparatus 1 and the image forming apparatus 7. You can also keep it.
<Detailed description of sheet binding device>
Next, details of the sheet binding apparatus according to the embodiment will be described.

  10 and 11 are flowcharts for explaining an example of a processing flow in the sheet binding apparatus according to the embodiment. Note that the processing flow shown here is merely an example. For example, regarding the execution order of a plurality of determination processes and setting value acquisition processes, if the same processing result can be obtained as a result, there is no problem in the future. All processes may be executed in parallel.

  The CPU 801 (number information acquisition unit) acquires the number information indicating the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle to be subjected to the sheet binding process in the post-processing apparatus 1 from the CPU 701 of the image forming apparatus 7 (ACT 101). The CPU 701 of the image forming apparatus 7 can acquire the number information from, for example, a “print job” or the like when executing image forming processing (specifying binding processing as post-processing) for a plurality of sheets. .

  The CPU 801 acquires the press setting parameter corresponding to the acquired number information from, for example, a data table as illustrated in FIG. 12 stored in the HDD 804 (ACT102, ACT103, ACT112). In the data table shown in FIG. 12, the pressing force according to each condition such as the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle to be bound (the number of sheets constituting the bundle) and the type of sheet to be bound (sheet type). The pressing period is defined in advance.

  Here, the case where the pressing force and the pressing period corresponding to each condition are stored in advance in the HDD 804 or the like in the form of a data table is exemplified, but as a result, the pressing force and pressing period corresponding to various conditions are illustrated. What is necessary is just to be able to acquire a set value. Therefore, for example, it is possible to adopt a configuration in which an arithmetic expression is stored in advance in the HDD 804 or the like, and a set value such as a desired pressing force or pressing period is calculated by inputting an argument such as the number of sheets. .

As shown in ACT102, ACT103, and ACT112, the CPU 801 (press control unit) determines that the total number of sheet bundles to be bound is a predetermined number (in the example shown in FIG. 12) based on the setting value of the data table shown in FIG. 49), the pressing period at the time of pressing with the second pressing force by the pressing mechanism D (pressing portion) is set to be longer than when the predetermined number or less (for a large number of sheets) Selection of set value group). In the data table shown in FIG. 12, for example, when the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle to be bound is “49 sheets or less”, the pressing process for the second stacked sheet on the processing tray 102 is “normal”. For “paper”, the pressing force F1 = 0.05 [N] and the pressing duration T1 (1.0 [Sec]) is set. For “thick paper”, the pressing force F1 = 0.08 [N] and the pressing duration T1 ( 1.5 [Sec]).
There is a case where the pressing duration in the case of pressing and bonding a sheet sandwiching the adhesive is proportional to the strength of the sheet adhesive force by the adhesive to some extent. Therefore, when the sheet bundle to be subjected to the binding process exceeds a predetermined number (for example, 50 sheets), the pressing duration is increased as compared with the case where a predetermined number or less of the sheet bundle is pressed. A thick sheet bundle can be stably bound.

  In general, the thicker the sheet bundle, the larger the force applied to the binding portion by the operation of turning pages when using the sheet bundle (when browsing information printed on each sheet). is there. Therefore, it is preferable that the thicker sheet bundle is strongly bonded. From this viewpoint, when the sheet bundle to be subjected to the binding process has a thickness exceeding a predetermined number, the pressing duration is increased and the sheets are firmly bound. It is preferable.

  Further, the CPU 801 (press control unit) first sets the sheet bundle loaded by the first number based on the set value of the data table shown in FIG. 12 based on the number information acquired from the image forming apparatus 7. And a second number of sheets (for example, all the sheets constituting the sheet bundle to be bound are stacked) in a state where the sheets are further stacked on the first number of sheet bundles. The bundle is pressed with a second pressing force higher than the first pressing force. In the data table shown in FIG. 12, for example, when the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle of “plain paper” to be bound is “49 sheets or less”, 2 sheets on the processing tray 102 of the sheet bundle to be bound are stored. The pressing process for the second stacked sheet (the state in which the number of stacked sheets is the first number) is set to a pressing force F1 = 0.05 [N], and is finally stacked on the processing tray 102 of the sheet bundle to be bound. The pressing process for the sheet (the number of stacked sheets is the second number) is set to a pressing force Fn = 0.10 [N].

  In the example shown in FIG. 12, the pressing force F1 for the sheet stacked on the processing tray 102 second among the sheet bundle to be bound is the last on the processing tray 102 of the sheet bundle to be bound. The pressing force Fn-1 for the sheet stacked immediately before the sheet stacked on the sheet is set to the same value, and the pressing force for the sheet stacked last on the processing tray 102 in the sheet bundle to be bound is set. Only Fn is a high value.

That is, in the example shown in FIG.

F1 = F2 = F3 = ... = Fn-1 <Fn

The relationship is set.

Of course, the set values for the pressing force and the pressing duration are not limited to the above example. For example, the pressing force and the pressing duration increase sequentially each time the sheets are stacked.

F1 <F2 <F3 <... <Fn-1 <Fn

So that the same setting value is applied to several sheets in the middle of the sheet stacking process.

F1 <F2 = F3 <... = Fn-1 <Fn

The setting contents can also be set as follows.

In addition, the present invention is not limited to the case where the pressing force Fn for the last sheet stacked on the processing tray 102 among the sheet bundle to be bound is maximized,

F1 <F2 = F3 <... <Fn-1 = Fn

The setting contents can also be set as follows.

  As described above, the pressing force applied to the sheet bundle (for example, the number of stacked sheets of 30 sheets) additionally stacked up to the second number larger than the first number is the sheet stacked in the first number. By making it stronger than the pressing force when pressing a bundle (for example, the number of stacked sheets is 15), simple pressing with a relatively weak first pressing force until the second stacking number is stacked. Thus, each of the stacked sheets is adhered to some extent, and when the second number of stacked sheets is reached, the second stacked number becomes the second stacked number by the second pressing force stronger than the first pressing force. By strongly pressing the sheet bundle, the sheets constituting the sheet bundle having the second stacked number can be additionally bonded with a uniform force.

  Thus, the binding process can be advanced by repeating a simple pressing operation with a weak pressing force until the number of sheets stacked on the tray reaches the second stacking number. The time required for the sheet pressing operation to reach the number of stacked sheets can be shortened, which can contribute to the improvement of the throughput of the entire binding process.

    Further, when the number of sheets stacked on the tray reaches the second number of stacked sheets, by pressing with a strong second pressing force, the sheets constituting the sheet bundle can be re-applied with a uniform force. As a result, a beautifully finished binding process can be realized.

  In general, as the number of stacked sheets increases, if the uppermost sheet is pressed from above, the sheet bundle stacked below the uppermost sheet becomes a cushion. The pressing force required to sufficiently press the uppermost sheet (for example, the 30th stacked sheet) and the sheet directly below it (for example, the 29th stacked sheet) is strong. It will become. According to the sheet binding apparatus according to the present embodiment, there is no problem due to insufficient pressing force due to an increase in the number of stacked sheets, and it is possible to suppress the occurrence of adhesion failure or the like when the sheet bundle is bonded.

  Further, if the entire sheet bundle as a binding target is to be stacked and then pressed together, it is necessary to press with a very large force compared to the configuration according to the present embodiment. If it is going to employ | adopt the press mechanism which enables the press by this press force, a press mechanism tends to become large sized and there also exists a problem in a viewpoint of space saving. On the other hand, according to the sheet binding device according to the present embodiment, a sufficient adhesive force can be realized even with a small pressure compared to a case where the entire sheet is pressed together to bond the entire sheet bundle. Therefore, the pressing mechanism itself can be greatly reduced in size, and a great effect can be achieved in terms of energy saving and space saving. Further, if the whole is pressed together, the pressing mechanism is not only enlarged, but also the pressing time is extended. If the pressing time is short, it is not necessary to delay the operation of transporting the next sheet stacked on the tray next to the sheet to be pressed, but if the pressing time is long, the sheet on the tray next to the sheet to be pressed When the next sheet stacked on the sheet is conveyed, it may be necessary to wait until the pressing operation for the immediately preceding sheet is completed. As a result, it is necessary to reduce the throughput of sheet conveyance toward the tray to the productivity according to the pressing time of the sheet binding device. In other words, by pressing the whole sheet bundle at the end, if you try to bond the whole sheet bundle just by finally pressing together, it takes a lot of time for each stacked sheet The pressing time is set to an appropriate time, and the time when the entire sheet bundle is finally pressed together is slightly longer than the time when the sheets are bonded together, so that the total time required for bonding as a whole Can be shortened, and productivity can be improved.

  Further, based on the number information acquired from the image forming apparatus 7, the CPU 801 (press control unit) first sets the sheet bundle loaded by the first number based on the setting value of the data table shown in FIG. 12. And pressing the second sheet bundle for a second period longer than the first period. In the data table shown in FIG. 12, for example, when the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle of “plain paper” to be bound is “49 sheets or less”, 2 sheets on the processing tray 102 of the sheet bundle to be bound are stored. The pressing process for the second stacked sheet (the state in which the number of stacked sheets is the first number) is set to the pressing duration T1 (1.0 [Sec]), and the last sheet bundle on the processing tray 102 is the binding target sheet bundle. The pressing process for the sheets stacked in the state (the number of stacked sheets is the second number) is set to the pressing duration T2 (5.0 [Sec]).

  In the example shown in FIG. 12, from the pressing duration T <b> 1 for the sheet stacked second on the processing tray 102 among the sheet bundles to be bound, on the processing tray 102 among the sheet bundles to be bound. The value is the same up to the pressing duration Tn-1 for the sheet stacked immediately before the last stacked sheet, and the last stacked sheet on the processing tray 102 of the sheet bundle to be bound is set. Only the pressing duration Tn is lengthened.

That is, in the example shown in FIG.

T1 = T2 = T3 = ... = Tn-1 <Tn

The relationship is set.

Of course, the set value for the pressing duration is not limited to the above example, for example, so that the pressing duration increases each time the sheets are stacked.

T1 <T2 <T3 <... <Tn-1 <Tn

So that the same setting value is applied to several sheets in the middle of the sheet stacking process.

T1 <T2 = T3 <... = Tn-1 <Tn

The setting contents can also be set as follows.

In addition, the present invention is not limited to the case where the pressing duration Tn for the last sheet stacked on the processing tray 102 in the sheet bundle to be bound is maximized,

T1 <T2 = T3 <... <Tn-1 = Tn

The setting contents can also be set as follows.

  In consideration of the fact that the pressing duration in the case of pressing and adhering the sheets sandwiched with the adhesive may be somewhat proportional to the strength of the sheet adhesive force by the adhesive, the sheet bundle to be bound is the second. When the number of sheets is two, the thick sheet bundle can be bound more stably by making the pressing duration longer than when pressing the first number of sheet bundles.

  In general, as the number of stacked sheets increases, if you try to push down the uppermost sheet from above, the bundle of sheets stacked below the uppermost sheet becomes a cushion. The pressing force required to sufficiently press the sheet positioned at the upper level and the sheet positioned directly below it becomes stronger.

  Therefore, in consideration of the fact that the pressing duration in the case of pressing and adhering the sheet sandwiched by the adhesive may be somewhat proportional to the strength of the sheet adhesive force by the adhesive, the sheet bundle to be bound is When the second number of sheets is used, the thick sheet bundle can be bound more stably by making the pressing duration longer than when pressing the first number of sheet bundles. According to the sheet binding apparatus according to the present embodiment, the shortage of pressing force accompanying the increase in the number of stacked sheets is compensated for by extending the pressing period, thereby suppressing the occurrence of adhesion failure or the like during the sheet bundle binding process.

  The CPU 801 (thickness information acquisition unit) acquires thickness information related to the thickness of the sheet to be bound from the detection result by the thickness sensor H1 or H2 or the CPU 701 of the image forming apparatus 7 (ACT 104).

  Based on the thickness information acquired by the CPU 801 (thickness information acquisition unit), the CPU 801 (press control unit) is configured such that part or all of the sheets constituting the sheet bundle to be subjected to the binding process have the first thickness. When the second thickness (for example, the thickness of the thick paper) is larger than the thickness (for example, the thickness of the plain paper), the second pressing force is referred to with reference to the setting value of the data table shown in FIG. The rate of increase with respect to the first pressing force is set to be higher than when a sheet bundle composed only of sheets having the first thickness is bound (ACT 105).

  In general, it is known that a sheet bundle composed of thick sheets requires a higher pressing force when performing a binding process by bonding. Therefore, in the present embodiment, as shown in the data table of FIG. 12, a part of the sheet bundle to be bound (for example, when only the cover sheet or the insertion sheet is thick paper) or all of the sheet bundle is thick paper or the like. In the case of a thick sheet, the sheet is pressed by a pressing force stronger than the pressing force at the time of binding processing of a sheet bundle composed only of sheets thinner than the thick sheet.

  Further, the CPU 801 (press control unit) is configured such that a part or all of the sheets constituting the sheet bundle to be bound is first based on the thickness information acquired by the CPU 801 (thickness information acquisition unit). When the second thickness (for example, the thickness of the thick paper) is larger than the thickness (for example, the thickness of the plain paper) (ACT 104, Yes), the setting value of the data table shown in FIG. 12 is referred to. Thus, the rate of increase of the second period relative to the first period is set to be higher than when a sheet bundle composed only of sheets having the first thickness is bound (ACT 105) (data table in FIG. 12). See).

  In general, it is known that a sheet bundle composed of thick sheets requires a higher pressing force when performing a binding process by bonding. Therefore, in the present embodiment, when a part of the sheet bundle to be subjected to the binding process (for example, when only the cover or the insertion sheet is thick paper) or all of the sheet bundle is a thick sheet such as thick paper, Pressure bonding is performed for a period longer than the pressing duration during the binding process of the “sheet bundle composed only of thin sheets rather than thick sheets”.

  Following the parameter setting process (ACT101 to ACT105) of the pressing operation performed as described above, the CPU 801 uses the flapper and the conveyance roller to process the sheet that is the object of the binding process conveyed from the image forming apparatus 7 to the processing tray 102. Lead up (ACT 106). Note that the parameter setting process (ACT101 to ACT105) of the pressing operation can be performed every time the sheets constituting the sheet bundle to be bound are stacked on the processing tray 102, but the conveyance of each sheet is performed. Before starting, setting parameters for pressing operation corresponding to each sheet may be set in a lump.

  As described above, the CPU 801 (press control unit) determines that the sheet to be pressed is a sheet stacked on the processing tray 102 at the end of the sheet bundle to be bound (ACT 107, Yes). ) Based on the setting parameters acquired from the data table shown in FIG. 12, the pressing mechanism D performs the pressing process with the pressing force Fn (second pressing force) and the pressing duration Tn (second period) (see FIG. 12). ACT 114).

  On the other hand, the CPU 801 (press control unit) determines that the sheet to be pressed is not a sheet stacked on the processing tray 102 at the beginning or end of the sheet bundle to be bound (ACT 107, No) ( ACT 108, No), based on the setting parameters acquired from the data table shown in FIG. 12, the pressing force F1 to the pressing force Fn-1 (first pressing force) and the pressing duration T1 to the pressing duration Tn-1 ( In the first period, the pressing process by the pressing mechanism D is performed (ACT 109).

  Next, the CPU 801 (control unit) is a target to which the adhesive is applied when trying to attach the adhesive to the “uppermost sheet” of the sheets stacked on the processing tray 102. When the sheet detection sensor S1 or S2 does not detect that the “next sheet” to be stacked on the processing tray 102 after the “topmost sheet” is conveyed toward the processing tray 102 (ACT 110, No) ), The adhesive application operation by the gluing unit 101 (adhesive application unit) for the “topmost sheet” is controlled not to be performed.

  In other words, the CPU 801 (control unit) conveys the “next sheet” to be stacked on the processing tray 102 next to the “topmost sheet” to be applied with the adhesive toward the processing tray 102. Only when the presence of the sheet is detected by the sheet detection sensor S1 or S2 (ACT 110, Yes), the adhesive application operation by the gluing unit 101 (adhesive application unit) for the “uppermost sheet” is performed (ACT 111).

  Here, “when trying to attach the adhesive to the uppermost sheet” means, for example, that the sheets stacked on the tray are the front cover or the back of the sheet bundle that is the target of the binding process. When the sheet is not a cover sheet but “usually a sheet to which an adhesive is to be applied”, it means that the adhesive is being attached to the sheet. In other words, “when trying to attach the adhesive to the uppermost sheet” means that the adhesive is applied to the sheet in a standby state or to apply the adhesive to the sheet. The concept of the state which has started the operation | movement for apply | coating is included.

  In ACT 110, when determining whether or not the “next sheet” is conveyed toward the processing tray 102, the CPU 801 (supply information acquisition unit), for example, a sheet from the image forming apparatus 7 (external device). When a signal (supply information) indicating the presence / absence of supply is acquired and the CPU 801 (supply information acquisition unit) receives the signal, it is determined that the “next sheet” is conveyed onto the processing tray 102. Also good.

  Further, in ACT 110, the CPU 701 (determination unit) provided in the image forming apparatus 7 determines whether or not the sheet is conveyed to the post-processing apparatus 1 (including the sheet binding apparatus) by the conveying unit 707 and the like, and the “next sheet” is post-processed Only when it is determined to be conveyed to the apparatus 1, the CPU 701 (application request unit) requests the post-processing apparatus 1 to apply adhesive to the sheet conveyed toward the processing tray 102 immediately before the “next sheet” (command). Transmission).

  Here, “immediately before” means immediately before in the conveying order among a plurality of sheets sequentially conveyed. For example, when three sheets to be bound are conveyed in the order of the first sheet, the second sheet, and the third sheet, the sheet immediately before the second sheet (next sheet) is the first sheet. Yes, the sheet immediately before the third sheet (next sheet) is the second sheet.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a state in which adhesive application is performed by the gluing head 101a on the upper surface of a sheet (Sheet1) that is first stacked on the processing tray 102 in the sheet bundle to be bound. . As shown in FIG. 13, when the next sheet (Sheet2) is ejected and stacked on Sheet1 to which an adhesive is applied, the CPU 801 (press control unit) lowers the pressing member 101r of the pressing mechanism to press the upper surface of Sheet2. The pressure F1 is pressed for the pressing duration T1, and Sheet1 and Sheet2 are pressure-bonded with an adhesive (FIG. 14).

  As shown in FIG. 14, the adhesive is applied by the gluing head 101a on the upper surface of the pressed Sheet 2 (FIG. 15), and the next sheet (Sheet 3) is discharged onto the Sheet 2 to which the adhesive has been applied. When loaded, the CPU 801 (press control unit) lowers the pressing member 101r of the pressing mechanism and presses the upper surface of the Sheet 3 with the pressing force F2 for the pressing duration T2, thereby pressing the Sheet 1 to Sheet 3 (FIG. 16).

  In this way, a series of processes from application of adhesive to pressing is performed each time a sheet is stacked on the processing tray 102. Here, for example, when there are a total of six sheet bundles (Sheet1 to Sheet6) to be bound, the CPU 801 (press control unit) includes a sheet bundle composed of six sheets to be bound. Finally, with respect to the sheet (Sheet 6) stacked on the processing tray 102, only the pressing process with the pressing force Fn and the pressing duration Tn is performed without applying an adhesive (FIG. 16).

  However, as shown in ACT 110 described above, even when an adhesive application operation is performed on a sheet to be subjected to adhesive application, the next sheet is stacked on the processing tray 102. If the CPU 801 does not acquire information indicating that the adhesive is applied, the adhesive application operation is not performed (FIG. 18).

  By controlling the adhesive application operation by such a processing algorithm, for example, in the middle of the sheet binding process, on the image forming apparatus 7 side or the post-processing apparatus 1 side, a machine trouble such as a sheet jam or the like in the paper feed cassette Even if the sheet binding process in the post-processing apparatus 1 is interrupted when the sheets run out, an adhesive is applied to the upper surface of the sheet bundle (for example, Sheet 1 and Sheet 2 shown in FIG. 18) in which the binding process has been performed halfway. There is nothing to do. Thereby, even in a sheet bundle in which the sheet binding process has been performed halfway, the adhesive applied to the surface of the sheet bundle is not exposed, and convenience when handling the sheet bundle in which the sheet binding process is interrupted Can be improved. Of course, even when the sheet binding process is interrupted in this way (when the next sheet to be bound does not come), the CPU 801 lowers the pressing member 101r of the pressing mechanism to stop the application of the adhesive. The upper surface of the upper sheet is pressed with a pressing force corresponding to the sheet. As a result, even if the sheet binding process is interrupted due to any interruption reason such as sheet jamming, the above-mentioned interruption can be achieved by pressing the sheet group of the pages up to the middle while the adhesive is attached. When the reason is resolved, the binding process is performed on the sheet bundle up to the middle of the crimping (for example, up to the third sheet of a total of five sheets) from the middle (for example, a total of five sheet bundles). It can also be restarted (from the 4th sheet).

  Further, in the above-described example, compared to pressing the sheet bundle stacked on the processing tray 102 by the first number, the sheet stack stacked on the processing tray 102 by the second number is pressed. In this case, the set values of both the pressing force and the pressing duration are changed in a direction to enhance the pressing effect, but the present invention is not necessarily limited to this. For example, only the first number is loaded on the processing tray 102. Compared with the case where the sheet bundle is pressed, only one set value of the pressing force and the pressing duration when pressing the sheet bundle loaded on the processing tray 102 by the second number is pressed. You may set so that it may change in the direction which raises an effect.

Each operation in the processing in the above-described post-processing apparatus is realized by causing the CPU 801 to execute a sheet binding program stored in the memory 802, for example.
(Modification)
In the above-described embodiment, the gluing unit that performs gluing on the sheet is not necessarily limited to the unit that ejects liquid glue, and examples thereof include some other modes described below.

(1) Adhesion of double-sided tape with glue on both sides (2) Application of paste-like glue (3) Application of liquid glue (4) Application of stick-like glue For example, as in (1) above When the configuration is adopted, a tape stamp device 50 as shown in FIGS. 19 and 20 can be provided as an adhesive application portion.

  The tape stamp device 50 is attached close to a positioning unit 306 that aligns the leading ends of the paper P by abutting the rear end of the paper P in the vertical alignment direction.

  The tape stamp device 50 includes a tape head 52 and a stamp stand 53 that holds the tape head 52 in a tiltable manner. As shown in FIG. 19, the tape head 52 has a standby posture having an angle θ (0 degree <θ <90 degrees) upward with respect to the paper placement surface 306A of the positioning unit 306, and parallel to the paper placement surface 306A. It is possible to tilt between the press posture of a proper posture. In the standby position, the tape head 52 rises above the maximum height at which the paper P can be stacked on the paper placement surface 306A and tilts, whereby the paper P dropped and supplied to the processing tray 102 is received by the positioning unit 306. It is easy. Of course, the tape head 52 may not be inclined at the standby position.

  A series of operations in which the tape head 52 is tilted from the standby position to the press posture, the pressure P is applied to bond the paper P and the cut adhesive sheet portion (described later), and then returned to the standby position is referred to as a tape head stamp operation.

  The mechanism for performing the tape head stamping operation is related to the first long hole 54 formed in the stamp stand 53 in the vertical direction, the second long hole 55 whose upper end is lower than the first long hole 54, and the first long hole 54. A first engaging pin 56 that engages with the second elongated hole 55, and a first engaging pin 56 and a second engaging pin 57 that are attached to the side surface of the tape head 52. . The first engagement pin 56 is engaged with a side surface of the tape head 52 in an auxiliary long hole (not shown) that is long in the longitudinal direction. This is because the first engagement pin 56 can move to the upper end of the first long hole 54 after the second engagement pin 57 reaches the upper end of the second long hole 55. The tape head 52 starts to tilt with the second engagement pin 57 as a fulcrum by moving the auxiliary long hole 56.

  Further, a pressure F generated by a pressure application unit (not shown) is applied to the tape head 52 downward through a first elastic body 58 such as a spring. When the pressing force F is applied to the tape head 52, the tape head 52 moves downward against the elastic force of the second elastic body 59 such as a spring. When the first engagement pin 56 reaches the upper end position of the second long hole 55, the tape head 52 assumes the horizontal posture shown in FIG. The contact surface of the transfer contacts. Even if the pressing force F is applied to the first elastic body 58 in this state, the tape head 52 does not lower any more, the first elastic body 58 is contracted, and the double-sided adhesive sheet is attached to the paper P.

  When the applied pressure F is released, the elastic force stored in the second elastic body 59 is released, and the tape head 52 is returned to the standby position. At that time, the pasted portion of the double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet adhered to the paper P remains as a cut pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet portion.

  In the tape head 52, there is disposed a roll tape 33 in which a tape-like double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet 31 is detachably attached to one side of a belt-like mount tape 32 indicated by a broken line and wound in a roll shape. The side is wound around the winding shaft 34. Also, the roll tape 33 is wound around two folding rollers 35 and transfer contact surface forming rollers 36 and 37 that are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal alignment direction. The take-up shaft 34 is rotationally driven by a tape take-up mechanism constituted by a motor M or the like, and takes up the roll tape. The first transfer contact surface forming roller 36 and the second transfer contact surface forming roller 37 protrude downward from the lower surface of the tape head 52, and the transfer contact surface 38 is defined between the rollers in the longitudinal alignment direction. Further, in the lower surface 52A of the tape head 52, a portion corresponding to the transfer contact surface 38 is formed on the wall surface, and the mount tape 32 contacts.

  The roll tape 33 is controlled by controlling the rotation of the motor M in a direction (hereinafter referred to as a width direction) between the first transfer contact surface forming roller 36 and the second transfer contact surface forming roller 37. The width of the double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet 31 fed in the width direction from the first transfer contact surface forming roller 36 can be adjusted. When the width of the double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet 31 is short, the adhesive force between the sheets P is weak. For example, when the paper P is a thick paper, the paper is stiff, so that a large peeling force is likely to be applied in the direction of peeling the adhesive when turning the pages of the paper bundle. At that time, if the width of the double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet 31 is wide, the adhesive strength is increased accordingly. Further, when the paper P is thin, the peeling force applied to the bonded portion is weak.

  Therefore, the adhesive strength can be adjusted by adjusting the width of the double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet 31 fed to the transfer contact surface 38.

  Further, for example, the pressing mechanism D shown in FIG. 2 is a mechanism independent of the gluing portion 101 for applying the adhesive, but when the mechanism shown in FIG. 19 is adopted, the double-sided adhesive sheet 31 is fed out. If the sheet is pressed in the state, “adhesive application” can be performed. If the sheet is pressed in a state where the double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet 31 on the mount tape 32 is exposed, the sheet is pressed without applying the adhesive. Can only do.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, even when the expression “apply” the glue is used, not only the case of “applying” the glue on the sheet but also the case of spraying like a spray, for example, FIG. It is meant to include the case where a tape-type glue as shown in Fig. 5 is applied or the case where a stamp-type glue is applied. That is, glue may be applied to the sheet surface as a result of the processing. In addition, the adhesive is not limited to being attached to the sheet alone, and for example, a configuration in which a double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet in which an adhesive is applied on both sides of a sheet-like base material is attached to the sheet together with the base material can be adopted. is there.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration using pressure-sensitive adhesive as an adhesive is illustrated as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the adhesive applied to the present embodiment may be suitable for reuse in which the adhesive strength is reduced or almost disappeared by receiving high or low heat. In addition, the adhesive used by the adhesive portion may be one whose adhesive strength is reduced or almost disappeared by receiving light.

  In addition, the “sheet” in the above-described embodiment is not necessarily limited to paper, and may be any sheet-like medium that can be bound by glue, such as an OHP film sheet.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the adhesive application request to the post-processing apparatus 1 is transmitted from the CPU 701 of the image forming apparatus 7 is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this. The above-described adhesive application request can also be transmitted to the post-processing apparatus 1 from an automatic document feeder that performs only sheet conveyance.

  Further, a program for executing the above-described operations in a computer constituting the sheet binding device and the post-processing device including the sheet binding device can be provided as a sheet binding program. In the present embodiment, the case where the program for realizing the function for carrying out the invention is recorded in advance in a storage area provided in the apparatus is exemplified. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a similar program can be downloaded from the network. The program may be downloaded to the apparatus, or a similar program stored in a computer-readable recording medium may be installed in the apparatus. The recording medium may be in any form as long as it can store a program and can be read by a computer. Specifically, as a recording medium, for example, an internal storage device such as a ROM or a RAM, a portable storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk, a DVD disk, a magneto-optical disk, or an IC card, a computer Examples include a database holding a program, another computer, its database, and a transmission medium on a line. Further, the function obtained by installing or downloading in advance may be realized in cooperation with an OS (operating system) or the like inside the apparatus.

  Note that a part or all of the program may be an execution module that is dynamically generated.

  Further, it goes without saying that various processes realized by causing the CPU or MPU to execute the program in the above-described embodiment can be executed at least partly by the ASIC 802 in a circuit form.

  The present invention can be implemented in various other forms without departing from the spirit or main features thereof. Therefore, the above-described embodiment is merely an example in all respects and should not be interpreted in a limited manner. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the scope of claims, and is not restricted by the text of the specification. Further, all modifications, various improvements, alternatives and modifications belonging to the equivalent scope of the claims are all within the scope of the present invention.

T binding processing section, B folding processing section, W stapler, 109 punching section, 801 CPU, 802 ASIC, 803 MEMORY, 804 HDD, 101 m motor, 101 b motor, 805 communication interface, 1 post-processing apparatus, 7 image forming apparatus, 701 CPU, 702 ASIC, 703 MEMORY, 704 HDD, 705 communication interface, 706 image forming unit, 707 sheet conveying unit, 708 sheet supply unit, S1 sheet detection sensor, H1 thickness sensor.

Claims (6)

A sheet binding device for binding a plurality of sheets by bonding,
A tray for loading sheets;
A transport unit for transporting sheets onto the stacking surface of the tray;
An adhesive application unit that attaches an adhesive to the upper surface of the stacked sheet every time the sheet is stacked on the tray;
A pressing unit that presses the upper surface of the second sheet stacked on the first sheet to which the adhesive is applied by the adhesive application unit, and bonds the first sheet and the second sheet; ,
A sheet number information acquisition unit for acquiring sheet number information indicating the number of sheets constituting the sheet bundle to be bound by bonding;
Based on the sheet number information acquired by the sheet number information acquisition unit, the sheet bundle loaded by the first sheet number is pressed with a first pressing force, and further sheets are added to the first sheet bundle. A pressing control unit that presses the second bundle of sheets in a stacked state with a second pressing force higher than the first pressing force;
A sheet binding apparatus comprising:   When the total number of sheet bundles exceeds a predetermined number, the pressing control unit makes the pressing period at the time of pressing with the second pressing force by the pressing unit longer than when the number is less than the predetermined number. The sheet binding apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sheet binding apparatus is characterized in that: The pressing control unit presses the sheet bundle loaded by the first number for the first period, and presses the second sheet bundle for the second period longer than the first period. The sheet binding apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sheet binding apparatus is configured.   The sheet binding apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second number is the total number of sheet bundles to be bound. A thickness information acquisition unit for acquiring thickness information on the thickness of the sheet;
The pressing control unit has a second thickness in which a part or all of the sheets constituting the sheet bundle is thicker than the first thickness based on the thickness information acquired by the thickness information acquisition unit. In this case, the rate of increase of the second pressing force with respect to the first pressing force is higher than that in the case of binding a sheet bundle composed of the sheets having the first thickness. Item 5. The sheet binding device according to any one of Items 4 to 5.   A sheet post-processing apparatus comprising the sheet binding apparatus according to claim 1.

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